The Media Line Staff04/25/2024Asharq Al- Awsat, London, April 10The enthusiasm surrounding the continuing talks in Cairo regarding a truce and slave trade deal between Israel and Hamas has grown tremendously. Contrary to what one does anticipate, Hamas has not made any extraordinary gestures or concessions of any kind. Instead, this optimistic view is a result of the Egyptians, Qataris, and Americans ‘ growing influence in putting pressure on important figures to stop the negotiations from collapsing right away. Particularly in light of the delicate situation in the region following the recent Israeli assault on the Persian Consulate in Damascus and Tehran’s following threats, this energy is crucial to avoid a deadlock. The most important strain, which has obviously made an impact, comes from the United States. This pressure has allowed Israel to be more flexible in lowering the conflict’s power, putting off Rafah conquest, and boosting Gaza’s ability to receive humanitarian aid. On the other hand, the mutual position of Egypt and Qatar does not significantly change from the British position. With the need for Israel’s final departure from Gaza and the returning of all displaced Gazans to their destroyed homes, both Arab countries are united in their calls for a complete and permanent cease-fire. Despite decades of fruitless negotiations involving Paris, Cairo, Doha, and Washington, the current negotiators are now earnestly engaged in the process, each with their own entrenched interests and goals. The Americans are attempting to de-escalate conflicts in the area, especially in the run-up to crucial votes for the Biden administration. In this crucial moment, Qatar, which plays a prominent part in its relationship with Hamas, is willing to show its potency and influence. Egypt is similarly deeply connected to the conflict because of its close proximity to the United States and its interests in national security. The mediators ‘ keen awareness of the stakes is reflected in the rising optimism during these discussions. They play a significant role in the negotiations and are heavily invested in the outcome rather than just being impartial facilitators. Beyond the immediate cease-fire, the focus shifts to what lies ahead and the issues that need to be addressed moving forward. The American playing a more assertive role in shaping the region’s future landscape is daunting given the complexity of post-war arrangements. The possibility of a six-week cease-fire gives participants a chance to examine the unresolved issues and consider what comes next as the discussions go on. The post-war era is a crucial moment at which the region’s wider conflicts must be addressed. Setting the groundwork for a new phase of Middle Eastern conflict resolution, starting with Gaza, has a high potential for success in this round of discussions. In an unexpected turn of events, Gaza has emerged as the catalyst for regional reconciliation. It serves as a reminder of how complex Middle Eastern conflicts are and how crucial it is to pursue a holistic solution. The ongoing negotiations in Cairo are not just about bringing an end to the current conflict; they are also about preparing the way for a new era of stability and cooperation in the area. —Nabil Amr ( translated by Asaf Zilberfarb )
